29 April 2004
Crime in England and Wales has remained stable according to the latest figures from the British Crime Survey (BCS).
Figures from the BCS and police recorded crime statistics, also released today, show that criminal activity is more likely to be focussed on anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence than on crime such as burglary and vehicle theft.
The quarterly update shows that recorded burglary, robbery and vehicle crime, have again all fallen significantly. Both the risk of being a victim of crime and the risk of being burgled remain at their lowest levels in more than 20 years.
According to the BCS, violent crime fell by five per cent and violence involving any injury dropped by six per cent. The BCS is seen as the most authoritative and reliable indicator of crime trends.
Police recorded violent crime increased by 11 per cent. Much of this rise is due to an increase in the reporting and recording of ‘low level’ thuggery, which increased by 21 per cent, and more willingness by victims to report sex offences.
Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said much of the violent crime is alcohol related, with young men the most likely victims.
The Home Office today published further guidelines and measures to deal with the problem including the use of ’stings’ to clamp down on underage drinking, and naming and shaming irresponsible nightclubs and corner shops.
"70 per cent of weekend night admissions to casualty are due to alcohol and in 50 per cent of violent crimes the attacker is intoxicated," said Ms Blears.
"The time has come to say enough is enough. The Government is cracking down on irresponsible landlords who encourage binge drinking, we are going to put an end to no-go city centres - reclaiming them for decent, law abiding citizens."
The Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit published an Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy for England on 15 March 2004
Extra info
- ‘Crime in England and Wales: Quarterly update to December 2003′ is available from the Home Office website (external link)
- Check crime statistics in your local area (external link)
delicious
digg
facebook
